Tributes paid to ‘fun-loving and hard-working’ former mayor Cliff Barber
‘HE TRULY REPRESENTED THE BEST OF US’
MOVING tributes have been paid to former mayor for North East Lincolnshire, Cliff Barber, who sadly died at the weekend after battling cancer.
Cliff, 61, was praised for his valour in the face of his terminal illness, about which he spoke publicly over a year ago.
He raised thousands of pounds for Macmillan Cancer Care following his diagnosis.
Hailed as a legend and a gentleman in his community, he served as mayor of North East Lincolnshire in 2015-16.
As a Labour councillor, he represented Freshney ward for several years.
Newly elected Labour councillor for South ward, Sheldon Mill, said: “The way he dealt with it (cancer) was admirable.
“It is typical of him to help raise thousands of pounds Macmillan while battling the illness.”
He added: “I was fortunate to know him for over six years. “I am proud to be called a friend of Cliff. He was a charmer. “He would get all the councillors together over fish and chips to talk about how to get ward funding. “His friendship transcended party politics.
“He knew everyone after being landlord of TCs on the Docks and at
for
I am proud to be called a friend of Cliff. He was a charmer. His friendship transcended party politics Sheldon Mill
The Valiant. He loved representing the town and was a popular mayor. It is a really sad loss for the town.” Former Mayor Peggy Elliott said: “Cliff was a fun-loving man, a down-to-earth and hard- working g guy. He always did it with a joke and a smile. He ran the Valiant for many years and had a reputation as a good landlord and a good man.”
Grimsby and Cleethorpes Labour Party posted a tribute expressing members’ deep sorrow.
They said: “Known for his big personality and constant smile, Cliff took immense pride in serving as Mayor.
“As Grimsby’s first citizen, he truly represented the best of us, making significant contributions that will be greatly g y missed. “He was one of our own and will be profoundly missed by all of us.
“During this difficult period, our thoughts are with his family.”
A year ago, after his terminal diagnosis, Cliff said: “They’ve told me nothing can be done so I just intend to go out, enjoy myself and make memories with my friends and family y while I still can.”